986 Area Code: Get a Local Phone Number for Boise City, Idaho

Senior Writer: Juhi Parekh

Published : July 29, 2025

You don’t need a storefront in Idaho to gain the trust of locals.

A 986 area code helps you in building instant trust and making your brand look familiar with the place (even if you’re miles away). In a world where consumers are quick to disregard anything that seems inauthentic, this subtle detail can enhance your brand’s credibility and impact.

In this guide, we’ll break down why 986 matters, where it works, its features, and how to get one fast with tools like CallHippo.

Let’s keep it simple and get you set up.

Where Is the Area Code 986 Located?

Idaho is experiencing tremendous growth in both population and business. Here, the 986 area code is a backbone for ensuring uninterrupted connectivity across different areas.

Cities and Counties Covered

The area code 986 uniformly serves every municipality in Idaho, including prominent urban centres and key rural locations:

State and Regional Context

Idaho is located in the Pacific Northwest. Surrounded by pleasing mountains and valleys, it is also a hub for tech-driven growth. These characteristics make it an ideal region for both startups and established businesses.

Nearby Area Codes

The area code 986 is an overlay for area code 208, which had historically served all of Idaho since 1947. Now, both codes are combined and used across the state.

Nearby area codes outside Idaho include:

986 Area Code Phone Number Format & How to Dial?

Here are the dialling instructions and examples for a 986 area code phone number:

• International: Dial your country’s exit code + 1(U.S.) + 986 + 7-digit number

Example: +1-986-555-1234

• Within the U.S.: Dial 1+986 + the 7-digit number

Example: 1-986-555-1234

Time Zone of the 986 Area Code

Idaho stretches across two time zones, so the 986 area code covers both:

• Mountain Time (MT): Most of the state falls here
• Pacific Time (PT): Applies to northern spots like Moscow and a few nearby counties

History of the 986 Area Code

In the year 1947, Idaho was allotted the 208 area code.

But as population and phone lines grew, 208 started running out of space. So in 2017, the FCC introduced 986 as an overlay, not a replacement of 208. Now, both codes run side by side, covering the same regions but giving Idaho room to grow.

Business Scenario and Outlook in the 986 Area Code

Idaho’s economy is experiencing impressive growth, with its GDP increasing from $120.96 billion in 2023 to $128.13 billion in 2024, a 5.9% rise, according to IBISWorld.

Key industries fueling this growth include agriculture, real estate, business services, and information technology. With a rising per-capita income of $61,836 in 2024, businesses looking to establish a local presence in cities like Boise and Idaho Falls can benefit significantly from using a local 986 area code.

Why Your Business Needs a 986 Local Phone Number?

When you’re trying to win trust in new markets, the area code you use actually matters. Additionally, a 986 phone number doesn’t just make you look local, it helps you look more familiar in the eyes of prospective customers.

Here’s how a 986 number can boost your outreach.

1. Local Presence

People are far more likely to answer a number that looks familiar. A 986 number shows up as local across Idaho, and your prospects will consider your business as one of them. That type of familiarity builds a connection before you even say hello.

2. Build Trust

If your number looks random or out of state, people hesitate to pick up. With a local code like 986, you immediately signal that you’re part of their world, not a robocall or scam. This is a small but powerful way to earn trust fast.

3. Boost Campaign Performance

Consistency matters across calls, emails, and even SMS. So, when your area code matches your target region, all communication effort lands better. It makes your message feel intentional, which gets more people to respond.

4. Brand Image

A 986 number doesn’t just help with logistics. It adds depth to your brand story. You’re not just reaching into Idaho, you’re showing up with presence. That detail can shift how people see you. Then, you will feel more invested, more regional, and more relevant.

How to Get a 986 Virtual Phone Number With CallHippo?

Follow the below-mentioned steps to get a 986 area code number from CallHippo instantly –

Step 1: Sign up for an account on the CallHippo platform.

Step 2: Select USA as your preferred country. 

Step 3: Select the 986 area code from the list of available virtual number options.

Step 3: Complete the activation process for your new virtual number.

Step 4: Instantly begin making and receiving calls from Idaho using CallHippo!

Boost Your Idaho Presence with a 986 Area Code!

With new-age AI features, CallHippo can help you convert your leads in a few minutes!

Sign Up Now See Pricing

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Features to Look for While Selecting a 986 Area Code Number

Not all phone systems are built the same. These tools don’t just make your calls smoother, they make your business look sharp and sound professional. Here are the major features to look for in a 986 area code number:

• On Hold Music: Keep callers engaged with branded music while they wait. It makes your business sound more polished and intentional.
• Call Recording: Record calls for team training, dispute resolution, or better follow-ups. Especially useful for high-stakes client conversations.
• Local Presence Dialing: Automatically match your caller ID to the recipient’s area code. This significantly increases answer rates.
• Call Forwarding: Ensure every call reaches the right team member, whether they’re in Boise or working remotely.
• Call Routing: Instantly read through conversations for easier reviews, note-taking, and team hand-offs.
• Real-Time Call Transcription: Listen to live calls and guide reps in real time, without customers hearing a thing.
• Voicemail: Eliminate manual dialing. Power Dialer automates outbound calls so your reps stay focused on closing.
• Power Dialer: Call leads directly from your CRM with one click. It’s seamless, time-saving, and built for modern workflows.
• Click to Dial: Drop pre-recorded voicemails without repeating yourself. Keep momentum up and energy high.

Final Takeaway

The 986 area code is a signal that tells people you’re local, familiar, and worth listening to. And in Idaho, that goes a long way. People pick up calls that feel close to home. They trust what feels familiar and take genuine interest in your offerings.

So if you’re ready to mark your presence in Idaho, get your 986 number with CallHippo and start sounding like you belong in Idaho.

FAQs

1. Can I use my 986 number on multiple devices?

Yes. With CallHippo, your 986 number works across desktops, phones, tablets and even on your browser to help you stay connected wherever you work.

2. Are there any limitations on calls and texts with a 986 number?

No special limits. Your plan decides how many calls or texts you can send. Just pick what fits your workflow.

3. Do I need a physical address in Idaho to get a 986 number?

No storefront or local office required. CallHippo gives you instant access to 986, no matter where you’re based.

4. Is there an overlay for the 986 area code?

Yes. 986 overlays 208. They cover the same Idaho regions, so 10-digit dialling is standard.

5. How can I avoid phone scams in the 986 area code?

Use caller ID, turn on spam filters, and block anything shady. And if you don’t know the caller, don’t share your sensitive information.

6. What are the other Idaho area codes?

Idaho has two area codes, including 208 and 986. They’re used statewide.

7. Can I port my existing 986 number to CallHippo?

Absolutely. Just follow CallHippo’s number porting steps during signup. It’s smooth and quick.

Updated : July 30, 2025

Juhi Parekh

Juhi is a senior content writer with over 4 years of experience in the B2B SaaS industry. A passionate storyteller at heart, she transforms complex ideas into compelling narratives with an adaptive and audience-first writing style. Juhi has helped multiple brands strengthen their voice, connect with their audience, and drive measurable growth through content. When she is away from the screen, she enjoys winding down with a well-written book!

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